‘Some people believe that football is matter of life and death. I am very disappointed with that attitude, it is much, much more important than that.’
Bill Shankly

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

French
football was rising, but in its peculiar way – no trully dominant
super-clubs emerged. Thus, doubles were rarely possible and no matter
how strong particular club was at any given year, they were not
overwhelming. A bit shaky St. Etienne and strong, but somewhat
lacking depth Nantes were good in the championship, but the cup was
too much. Other clubs reached the final. One was absolute surprise,
for they played a minor role in the second division. AS Monaco vs US
Orleans. For a second consecutive year one of the finalists was
second division club. But if Auxerre was climbing up, Orleans was
not. It took overtime to overcome Auxerre the previous year – now
Orleans was not a problem. Monaco won 3-1.

Naturally,
Orleans deserves praise – it was fantastic run for a lowly club.
Unfortunately, heroics were not enough – as a smallish
second-division team, Orleans lacked strong enough players.
Albaladejo and Loukaka were the only faintly recognizable names. But
playing at the final was great and memorable event. Too bad they had
no chance of winning.

Monaco
won the Cup easily, thus finishing the season on more than bright
note. Onnis, Dalger, Petit, Ettori, Emon... good players, but the
their number was a bit small for staying among the favourites without
a boost. The Cup was the needed boost, yet, the team needed
re-enforcement. Dalger, Emon, and Onnis were getting old – the
whole attacking line. Beating Orleans was one thing, but for the next
year at least one, may be two new strikers were a must. But never
mind the next season – this one finished wonderfully.

About Me

I am Vesselin Vesselinov, born in Bulgaria and living in Canada. Football is my hobby since childhood – not the most important part of my life, but lifelong addiction nevertheless. Playing, watching, talking and collecting football. Now I am sharing my addiction with you. Hope you enjoy it.